Bentley stepped out of his car, the soft crunch of gravel under his shoes barely registering as entered into the serene setting of his sprawling home. The sun was beginning to lower in the sky, the atmosphere cool and smooth over the pool where Nova swam with carefree energy. It was a good day to have a swim. The gentle sound of water splashing filled the air as Nova played and swam by herself.
He paused for a moment, taking in the sight of her. Nova’s skin glistened under the late afternoon light, her wet hair slicked back as she floated in the pool, looking entirely at ease. She hadn’t noticed him yet, and Bentley allowed himself to watch her a little longer, appreciating the calmness that seemed to radiate from her. He began to walk towards the pool, his shoes against the floor as he a
